22 May 2024 | Shima Afrasiabi and Alireza Partoazar
The article discusses the use of nanoparticle (NP)-based strategies to target bacterial biofilm-related genes, which are crucial for the persistence and resistance of biofilms. Biofilms, formed by bacteria adhering to surfaces and producing an extracellular matrix, pose significant challenges in medical treatments due to their resistance to antibiotics and immune systems. The study highlights the potential of NPs, such as silver (Ag), zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO₂), copper oxide (Cu), and iron oxide (Fe₂O₃), to inhibit biofilm formation by interfering with gene expression and molecular mechanisms. These NPs can penetrate biofilms, affecting genes related to efflux pumps, quorum sensing, and adhesion, thereby disrupting biofilm development. The article also emphasizes the importance of understanding the environmental impact and cytotoxicity of NPs to ensure their safe and effective use. The review concludes that NP-based strategies offer promising alternatives for combating biofilm infections, but further research is needed to optimize their mechanisms of action and minimize potential side effects.The article discusses the use of nanoparticle (NP)-based strategies to target bacterial biofilm-related genes, which are crucial for the persistence and resistance of biofilms. Biofilms, formed by bacteria adhering to surfaces and producing an extracellular matrix, pose significant challenges in medical treatments due to their resistance to antibiotics and immune systems. The study highlights the potential of NPs, such as silver (Ag), zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO₂), copper oxide (Cu), and iron oxide (Fe₂O₃), to inhibit biofilm formation by interfering with gene expression and molecular mechanisms. These NPs can penetrate biofilms, affecting genes related to efflux pumps, quorum sensing, and adhesion, thereby disrupting biofilm development. The article also emphasizes the importance of understanding the environmental impact and cytotoxicity of NPs to ensure their safe and effective use. The review concludes that NP-based strategies offer promising alternatives for combating biofilm infections, but further research is needed to optimize their mechanisms of action and minimize potential side effects.